Kinship Adoption

If you are a relative of a child in distress and have been parenting or helping to parent him or her, kinship adoption may be the next step to solidify that child’s future within your family.

In Pennsylvania, a relative is defined as a parent, grandparent, stepparent, sibling, uncle or aunt of the child’s birth family, whether the relationship is by blood, marriage or adoption. Kinship adoption is the legal process whereby a relative legally adopts the child in need.

Death of a natural parent, or unavailability due to addiction, abandonment, or violent behavior of one or both natural parents can thrust a child into crisis. Both federal and state law show a clear preference for a capable relative to adopt.

The path to final adoption in such cases can be complicated and twisting. As an adoption attorney since 1994, I can help you navigate the steps of kinship adoption in Bucks, Philadelphia or Montgomery Counties, including:

1. Identification of all adults with legal standing in the matter, including natural, adoptive, stepparents, or those who have stood in place of parents for the child (a legal condition known as “in loco parentis”)

2. Guidance as to what background/criminal clearances are required of all adults living in the home with the child

3. Direction about what types and formats of documentation are required to file an adoption petition and service of documents upon all parties with legal standing

4. My office will oversee the securing of Consent from any party with standing; however, if that person or persons refuse to sign a Consent, I can file a petition for involuntary termination of parental rights for you.

5. I will prepare all needed paperwork and represent you at all Hearings.

Pennsylvania adoption, and particularly kinship adoption, may seem an overwhelmingly detailed process, deliberately made so to protect the rights of parents (both natural and adoptive), and children. Yet, in practical terms, the courts and the state recognize the importance of solidifying a child’s emotional, physical and mental well being.

Come talk with me about kinship adoption. Call my office at 215-345-5259 for a free first consult.

– Elissa C. Goldberg, Esquire